Connection - September 2025

Connors State College Powers Oklahoma's Economy with $106 Million Impact

INSIDE THIS ISSUE

CONNORS STATE COLLEGE WARNER CAMPUS 700 COLLEGE ROAD WARNER, OK 74469 THREE RIVERS PORT CAMPUS 2501 N 41st St. E MUSKOGEE, OK 74403

ADMINISTRATION PRESIDENT Dr. Ronald S. Ramming VICE PRESIDENT FOR ACADEMIC AFFAIRS Dr. Chris McBeath VICE PRESIDENT FOR FISCAL SERVICES Mike Lewis VICE PRESIDENT FOR STUDENT AFFAIRS Jake Lawson

CONNECTION CONTRIBUTORS Dr. Krystle Lane Derotha Rivenbark Matthew Harmon Macey McCoy Jordan Barry Richard Benge Emily Efird

April 2025

FEATURE Connors State College Powers Oklahoma's Economy with $106 Million Impact

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CAMPUS LIFE Student Activities Welcome Students to Campus with Annual Back to School Bash Connors State Expands Mental Health Support with TimelyCare Partnership Campus Community Excited for the Return of the Cowboy Mercantile

EDUCATION Career & Support Services Hosts Lunch & Learn Event with Eddie Warrior Correctional Center

SPOTLIGHTS

Student Spotlight: Jordan Barry (Colcord, OK) Alumni Spotlight: Jordan Romano (‘13)

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ATHLETICS

Men’s & Women’s Soccer to Call Hilldale Home for 2025 CampaignBaseball Ends 2025 Campaign as Region 2 Runner-up After Weeks of Preparation, Cowboy & Cowgirl Soccer Kick-Off Their 2025 Seasons

CSC SOCIAL MEDIA

#ConnorsState

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@ConnorsState

@ConnorsState

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Connors State College in compliance with Title VI and VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, Executive Order 11246 as amended, Title IX of the Education Amendments of 1972. Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990, and other federal laws and regulations, does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, nation origin, sex, age, religion, disability, or status as a veteran in any of its policies, practices or procedures. This includes but is not limited to admissions, employment, financial aid, and educational services. In compliance with the Jeanne Clery Disclosure of Campus Security Policy and Campus Crime Statistics Act, crime statistics for both the Warner and Muskogee campuses may be reviewed at http://connorsstate.edu/asr. This publication was printed by Connors State College as authorized by the Director of College & Community Relations. The information given herein is for educational purposes only. Reference to commercial products or trade names is made with the understanding that no discrimination or endorsement is intended by Connors State College.

FEATURE

Connors State College Powers Oklahoma's Economy with $106 Million Impact

by Matthew Harmon, CSC Communications & Marketing

A comprehensive new economic impact study reveals that Connors State College serves as a powerful economic engine for Oklahoma, generating $106.22 million in total economic output while supporting 1,130 jobs and $47.81 million in wages throughout the state during fiscal year 2024.

The numbers tell a remarkable story of return on investment. With just $7.07 million in state appropriations, Connors State College delivered $15.02 in economic output for every dollar of state funding – showcasing the institution's vital role in driving economic growth across the region.

"These numbers tell a compelling story about our institution's impact that extends far beyond our campuses in Warner or Muskogee," said President Ramming. "We're not just educating students – we are contributing to Oklahoma's economy and creating opportunities for working families throughout the state."

The college's economic contributions stem from multiple sources, creating a ripple effect that touches communities across Oklahoma.

The study, conducted by the Economics Center using industry-standard methodologies, breaks down the impact into two key categories. Direct impact generated $54.58 million in output supporting 830 jobs with $33.27 million in wages – these are the immediate effects of the college's operations, from faculty and staff employment to campus spending. Indirect impact produced $51.64 million in additional economic activity supporting 300 jobs with $14.54 million in wages through ripple effects in other industries – representing the broader economic activity generated when Connors State employees and students spend money in their communities.

This economic activity extends far beyond the college's immediate footprint. From the local restaurant where students grab lunch to the construction companies that maintain

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FEATURE

campus facilities, Connors State's presence creates a web of economic opportunity that strengthens communities throughout eastern Oklahoma.

Beyond job creation and economic output, Connors State College generated $3.40 million in total tax revenue for state and local jurisdictions in fiscal year 2024. This includes $1.69 million in state income tax from wages supported by the college's activities and $1.69 million in local, county, and state sales tax from student and employee spending throughout local communities. This tax revenue represents a direct return to the taxpayers who support higher education, demonstrating how investment in Connors State creates a positive cycle of economic benefit.

The 15-to-1 return on state investment demonstrates that funding higher education

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at Connors State College represents one of the most effective ways to stimulate economic growth in Oklahoma. The college's impact reaches into every corner of the state's economy, from supporting local businesses through student spending to creating highquality jobs that keep talented Oklahomans in-state.

"This study validates what we've long believed – that investing in Connors State College is investing in Oklahoma's economic future," added President Ramming. "Every dollar spent on our institution multiplies throughout the economy, creating jobs, supporting families, and strengthening communities across our state."

The economic impact analysis examined fiscal year 2024 data and calculated impacts based on operational expenditures, student spending patterns, and alumni economic

FEATURE contributions. The methodology measured direct, indirect, and induced economic effects, providing a comprehensive picture of the college's total economic footprint. As Oklahoma continues to focus on economic development and workforce preparation,

Connors State College stands as a proven catalyst for growth, transforming state investment into widespread economic opportunity that benefits communities across the region.

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CAMPUS LIFE

Student Activities Welcome Students to Campus with Annual Back to School Bash

by Matthew Harmon, CSC Communications & Marketing

Connors State College's Student Activities department rolled out the welcome mat for new and returning students with their annual Back to School Bash in Cowboy Square. The vibrant campus gathering drew students together for an afternoon of games, refreshments, and community building as the fall semester got underway.

The event featured volleyball games, refreshing shaved ice to beat the Oklahoma heat, and a popular bouncy obstacle course that became the centerpiece of the afternoon's entertainment. The activities created an atmosphere where students could compete, laugh, and form new friendships regardless of their skill level.

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Student Activities events like the Back to School Bash reflect Connors State's commitment to creating a well-rounded college experience that extends beyond the classroom, helping build the sense of community and school spirit that makes students feel at home on campus.

CAMPUS LIFE

Connors State Expands Mental Health Support with TimelyCare Partnership

by Matthew Harmon, CSC Communications & Marketing

Connors State College has partnered with TimelyCare to offer students free, 24/7 access to virtual mental health support and medical care. The collaboration addresses a critical need on college campuses, where 69% of students who consider dropping out cite emotional stress as their primary reason, making mental health the leading cause of student departures.

Through the TimelyCare platform on their phones or devices, Connors State students can now access a comprehensive range of services from licensed physicians and counselors nationwide at no cost and without insurance barriers. Available services include on-demand and appointment-based medical care, immediate mental health support through TalkNow, up to six counseling sessions per academic year, health coaching, basic needs assistance, and peer support communities.

"At the forefront of our commitment to

student well-being is the priority of health and safety," said VP of Student Affairs Jake Lawson. "TimelyCare's accessibility makes it easier than ever for our students to access support. TimelyCare enhances our campus resources by making care more readily available to students when they need it."

The partnership addresses common barriers to student healthcare access. While many campus counseling centers have 2-3 week wait times for appointments, students can typically connect with TimelyCare providers in less than five minutes. Half of all mental health visits through the platform occur after regular business hours or on weekends, when traditional campus resources are unavailable.

TimelyCare offers a broad network of mental health providers and medical professionals, with translation services supporting more than 240 languages to serve students from diverse backgrounds. The HIPAA-compliant platform follows campus-specific protocols to

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CAMPUS LIFE

ensure continuity campus resources.

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Research demonstrates TimelyCare's effectiveness in supporting student success.

Nine out of 10 students recommend the service, and nearly eight out of 10 credit

TimelyCare with positively impacting their ability to stay in class, improve grades, and succeed academically. The platform shows clinically significant improvements for students with severe depression or anxiety symptoms by their third visit.

Campus Community Excited for the Return of the Cowboy Mercantile

by Matthew Harmon, CSC Communications & Marketing

A once-beloved campus staple has returned to Connors State College after a time away.

The Mercantile offers students, faculty, staff, and visitors a convenient one-stop shop for CSC gear and merchandise, allowing the campus community to show off their Cowboy and Cowgirl pride.

Beyond traditional college apparel and accessories, the store features unique products from CSC's agriculture programs, giving customers the opportunity to support student learning while purchasing highquality, locally-produced goods.

These agricultural products showcase the practical results of hands-on education programs that have long been a cornerstone of the Connors State experience.

The return of the Mercantile fills a longmissed gap on campus, providing both school spirit merchandise and a showcase for the college's agriculture programs. For students, having campus merchandise readily available helps foster school pride and creates a

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a stronger sense of community. Aside from students, faculty and staff can more easily access professional CSC apparel, while visitors and prospective applicants can take home a piece of the Cowboy and Cowgirl tradition.

The integration of agricultural program products into the store's offerings reflects Connors State's commitment to experiential learning and demonstrates the real-world applications of classroom instruction. By purchasing these items, customers directly support student programs while experiencing the quality and craftsmanship that comes from a hands-on education.

The Mercantile's return represents more than just retail convenience – it's a restoration of campus tradition and a celebration of Connors State pride that brings the entire community together.

CONNORSATHLETICS.. COM CONNORSATHLETICS

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EDUCATION

Career & Support Services Hosts Lunch & Learn Event with Eddie Warrior Correctional Center

by Matthew Harmon, CSC Communications & Marketing

On August 7, Connors State College's Career & Support Services hosted a collaborative Lunch & Learn event with Dr. Eddie Warrior Correctional Center, bringing together educators, employers, and community leaders for important conversations about workforce development and community partnership. The gathering exemplified Connors State College’s mission of connecting education with real-world applications and addressing local needs.

Local community partners played a vital role in the discussions, with representatives from Muskogee County Transit, Action Group Staffing, and Lake Area United Way sharing success stories that demonstrate the realworld impact of these collaborative efforts.

These partnerships extend beyond traditional workforce development, representing a commitment to second chances and the transformative potential of education and opportunity.

President Dr. Ron Ramming discussed the institution's commitment to serving all learners, while Vice President of Academic Affairs Dr. Chris McBeath explained how CSC's academic programs align with workforce development goals. The event featured presentations from key partners including Lisa Pamplin from Oklahoma CareerTech, who discussed technical programs, and Warden Christe Sweat, who provided insight into EWCC's work-release program.

The event highlighted several key areas of collaboration, including work-release programs, federal and state incentives for workforce development, and opportunities for coordinated training programs. These discussions showcase how educational institutions, correctional facilities, and community organizations can work together to create meaningful pathways to success for individuals seeking to rebuild their lives.

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EDUCATION

As a community college, Connors State College is uniquely positioned to foster these important conversations that address regional workforce needs while strengthening community bonds. The Lunch & Learn format

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provides an effective platform for sharing resources, identifying opportunities, and building the partnerships necessary to support both individual transformation and community economic development.

SPOTLIGHTS

Student Spotlight: Jordan Barry (Colcord, OK)

by Macey McCoy (Sophomore - Beggs, OK)

Jordan Barry, a freshman from Colcord, embodies the engaged student experience that is so common on-campus here at Connors State College. His decision to attend CSC came through the influence of his FFA advisor, Brooklyn Daily (a CSC alum herself) who connected him with numerous people and opportunities.

These diverse activities are opening doors for his future while teaching him skills he believes would be difficult to acquire elsewhere. Barry particularly values the community aspect of campus life, noting how he's welcomed with a smile everywhere he goes and how people genuinely want to know about his goals and aspirations.

Barry is pursuing a degree in animal science with a focus on pre-veterinary medicine, and he appreciates how Connors positions him for success in his academic goals. "Here I am not seen so much as a number in the system," Barry explains. "Everyone gets to know each other and it creates a very welcoming environment that I so much wanted to be a part of for the longest time."

After graduating from Connors State, Barry plans to continue his undergraduate education at OSU, pursuing his pre-veterinary medicine degree. He also hopes to join OSU's media team doing photography while completing his studies. His advice to prospective students reflects his own experience: "Be as involved as you can get.

Even though the school is small it is a very versatile and powerful college to help you set your future up for whatever you wish to do."

His involvement on campus extends across multiple areas, including the show team, Presidential Leadership Class (PLC), and the college's media team.

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SPOTLIGHTS

Alumni Spotlight: Jordan Romano (‘13)

by Matthew Harmon, CSC Communications & Marketing

Jordan Romano exemplifies the success that can spring from Connors State College's baseball program. The Canadian-born pitcher attended Connors State in 2013, where he helped lead the Cowboys to the NJCAA World Series during his sophomore season with a 43 record, 4.74 ERA, and 53 strikeouts in 38 innings pitched.

Romano became the Blue Jays' closer and earned back-to-back American League All-Star selections in 2022 and 2023. He set multiple franchise records, including converting 26 consecutive save opportunities and recording 36 saves in both 2022 and 2023. In December 2024, Romano signed a one-year, $8.5 million contract with the Philadelphia Phillies.

After transferring to Oral Roberts University to finish his collegiate career, Romano was drafted by the Toronto Blue Jays in the 10th round of the 2014 MLB Draft. Following his recovery from Tommy John surgery, Romano worked his way through the minor leagues and made his MLB debut in 2019.

Romano's journey from Connors State to MLB stardom demonstrates the transformative power of junior college baseball and the opportunities available to student-athletes who commit to developing their skills at CSC.

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ATHLETICS

Men’s & Women’s Soccer to Call Hilldale Home for 2025 Campaign

by Richard Benge, CSC Men’s & Women’s Soccer

Connors State College and Hilldale Public Schools have agreed to a deal that will see the Connors State soccer programs play home games at Hilldale Hornet Stadium beginning with the 2025 season.

Connors State soccer spent the first two years playing on Bacone College's former game field at Love-Hatbox Soccer Complex in Muskogee.

The new deal will see the Cowboys and Cowgirls play home games on Hilldale's stateof-the-art turf surface, and the stadium around the field will provide fans with an upgraded game day experience.

Head coach Adam Skolnick said, "I am very excited for the next chapter in the Connor's State College soccer books and Hilldale High School's turf stadium is the perfect place to call home for that chapter. As our teams continue to grow it was important to me to give the student athletes a top tier game field so that we could take pride in the work that we do and have a proper stage to show it.

Hilldale has done an incredible job with their turf stadium and given the area one of the best turf fields around."

Additionally, the lights at Hilldale Hornet Stadium will allow Connors State to host night games for the first time, allowing the teams to avoid kicking off games during the hottest part of the day and giving more fans a chance to attend matches by not having them during the workday.

"I can't thank the Hilldale staff enough for welcoming us with open arms. My hope is that this move will bring more people from the community to our matches to interact with our students from all around the world.

To show our appreciation to the community, matches will have no entrance fees and we will work with the community to provide opportunities for kids to interact with our players and be involved in our game day," Skolnick said Connors State's first home games at Hilldale Hornet Stadium will be a Region 2 doubleheader against NOC-Enid. Kick-off times for the upcoming season are being confirmed with Hilldale and the opposing teams, and will be posted on our website closer to the start of the season.

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ATHLETICS

After Weeks of Preparation, Cowboy & Cowgirl Soccer Kick-Off Their 2025 Seasons

by Matthew Harmon, CSC Communications & Marketing

Connors State College's men's and women's soccer teams are set to open their home conference schedules on September 7 with an exciting doubleheader against Northern Oklahoma College-Enid. The Cowgirls kick off the evening at 6:00 PM, followed by the Cowboys at 8:00 PM, marking the home openers for both programs.

The women's soccer team continues their home schedule with Eastern Oklahoma State College on September 10 at 6:00 PM and Northeastern Oklahoma A&M College on September 14, also at 6:00 PM. The Cowgirls face a challenging slate that includes road matchups at Rose State College on September 17 and Eastern Oklahoma State College on September 21, before returning home to host Murray State College on September 24 at 6:00 PM. Notable games later in the season include matchups against ranked opponents #3 Seminole State College on October 1 and #18 Rose State College on October 22.

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The men's team mirrors the early schedule with home contests against Eastern Oklahoma State College on September 10 at 8:00 PM and Northeastern Oklahoma A&M College on September 14 at 8:00 PM. The Cowboys will also travel for road games at Rose State College on September 17 and Eastern Oklahoma State College on September 21, before hosting Murray State College on September 24 at 8:00 PM. Both teams will compete throughout September and October, providing numerous opportunities for students, faculty, and community members to support Cowboy and Cowgirl soccer.

PHOTOS

Photos by Macey McCoy, Sophomore - Beggs, OK

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CONNORS STATE COLLEGE 700 COLLEGE ROAD WARNER, OK 74469

Students gather and celebrate the start of a new year at Student Activity’s annual Back 2 School Bash Event.